Spinach Stuffed Manicotti
Creamy spinach and ricotta stuffed manicotti baked with savory tomato sauce and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests with classic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the thawed spinach and mix it in a large bowl with the ricotta cheese.
- Combine the spaghetti sauce, sliced mushrooms, sliced onion, black olives, and diced green pepper in a medium saucepan.
- Simmer the sauce mixture for 10 minutes.
- Add oregano and garlic to the sauce and continue simmering.
- Stuff the cooked manicotti shells with the spinach and ricotta mixture.
- Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, pour the sauce over them, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to the spinach and ricotta mixture. If you don't have manicotti shells, jumbo pasta shells work as a great substitute. To save time, use store-bought spaghetti sauce or try making your own for a fresher taste. For added flavor, sauté the mushrooms and onions before adding them to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spinach stuffed manicotti with a side of Insalata (Italian Tomato Salad) for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread and a light green salad make excellent accompaniments as well. For a heartier meal, pair it with Italian Crostini to enhance the flavors of this delicious vegetarian dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover spinach stuffed manicotti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain moisture and keeps the cheese from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Stuffed Manicotti contains roughly 1420 calories, with 55g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (152% of the Daily Value), calcium (141% of the Daily Value), and iron (136% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2020mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen for this recipe?
Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, you’ll need about 10 ounces. Sauté it briefly in a pan until wilted, then drain and chop before mixing it with the ricotta. This fresh version adds a vibrant flavor and color to your manicotti.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make gluten-free spinach stuffed manicotti, use gluten-free pasta shells available in most grocery stores. Ensure that your spaghetti sauce is also gluten-free, or make your own from scratch using gluten-free ingredients. This way, everyone can enjoy this hearty dish without worry.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the manicotti a day ahead. Just stuff the shells and place them in the baking dish with the sauce, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).